English violet (Viola d'Amore) 1726

This is an English violet, or Viola d'Amore, crafted by Paulus Alletsee. The instrument has a resonating presence, its form defined by a rich brown hue that seems to absorb light. Notice how the body is carved in undulating bouts with a narrow waist, expanding into voluptuous curves, creating a dynamic interplay between concavity and convexity. The instrument features a series of strings which are held in tension. This viola embodies the Baroque era’s interest in ornamentation and complex forms. The f-holes are stylized. The wood has a tactile presence, as if one could trace the grain, feeling the history embedded within. Consider how Alletsee's design challenges conventional notions of simplicity. The Viola D'Amore becomes not just a musical instrument but a cultural artifact that continues to provoke questions about art, history, and the very nature of perception.